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​We need to start with a quick disclaimer: audiobooks count as reading, and that is not up for debate. I don’t want to hear any suggestions otherwise.

Audiobooks are an incredible way to experience a story, and honestly, sometimes they are actually better than the physical book. 

Whenever I find myself struggling to get through a book, switching to the audio version instantly saves the experience for me.

​The narrators for the books listed below did such an amazing job that they turned good stories into absolute masterpieces. 

If this is your very first time trying out an audiobook, these are the exact titles you should start with to guarantee you love it. 

Best Audiobooks To Listen to Right Now

1. The Keeper by Tana French

Narrated by Roger Clark

If you love a good mystery, this audiobook is pure magic. It takes place in a cold, rainy Irish village where a young girl goes missing, and the whole town splits apart. 

Honestly, reading this on paper can feel a bit slow because the author spends so much time describing the foggy weather and quiet streets. 

But listening to Roger Clark? His deep, warm Irish accent completely sucks you right into the room. 

It turns a slow crime story into a cozy, chilling masterpiece. You will absolutely love this if you want to get lost in a spooky atmosphere.

2. London Falling by Patrick Radden Keefe

Narrated by the author

This is a true story about a family looking for answers after their son dies in London. 

They quickly find out he was living a secret double life with some very dangerous people. 

I usually find real-life investigative books a little dry to read, but having the author himself read it changes everything.

You can hear the real emotion, care, and suspense in his voice. It feels like a close friend is letting you in on a massive, dark secret.

It is the perfect listen if you want a gripping mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

3. Speak Now by Ash Perez

Narrated by Jena Malone, Arienne Mandi, and a full cast

This is a super sweet romantic comedy about a talented chef who has to cater her ex-best friend’s wedding. 

The physical book is cute, but the audiobook is a whole experience because it features a full cast of actors.

It feels just like you are listening to a movie or a fun drama podcast. 

The voices are so lively, funny, and full of emotion. I smiled the entire time I listened to it. 

If you want a joyful, romantic story that makes you laugh out loud, you need to hear this one.

4. Year of the Mer by L.D. Lewis

Narrated by Janina Edwards

This is a dark and intense fantasy story that flips The Little Mermaid completely on its head.

It follows a princess named Yemi who wants revenge after losing her throne. 

On paper, the world-building and heavy politics can feel a bit confusing and hard to follow. But Janina Edwards reads it with so much power and grace.

She makes the dangerous world feel incredibly real and easy to understand. 

I really enjoyed how her voice kept me hooked through every single battle and secret plot. It is perfect for a thrilling escape.

5. The Edge of Space-Time by Chanda Prescod-Weinstein

Narrated by Joniece Abbott-Pratt

Space science can be really scary to read about and this book talks about big ideas like black holes and time. 

If I tried to read this with my eyes, I would probably fall asleep or feel totally lost. But the audiobook is a complete joy.

The narrator speaks with so much warmth and excitement that it feels like a friendly chat under the stars. 

She connects science to music and pop culture, which made it fun and easy. You will love this if you want to learn something amazing without the headache.

6. Whistler by Ann Patchett

Narrated by the author

This beautiful story is all about a woman who runs into her old stepfather at a museum, bringing back memories of how love can last across time. 

Ann Patchett reads her own book here, and it makes a huge difference. Her voice is so soft, gentle, and full of wisdom. 

Reading it might feel a bit too quiet or simple, but listening to her feels like a warm hug from a loved one.

7. The Secret World of Briar Rose by Cindy Pham

Narrated by Elena Rey

This is a beautiful, magical retelling of Sleeping Beauty where a thief enters a princess’s dream world to save her sister. 

The dream world has ice castles and oceans filled with stars.

While the descriptions are lovely to read, hearing them spoken aloud is pure magic. 

The narrator uses such a whimsical, dreamy voice that you feel like you are floating right through the clouds with the characters. 

I loved every second of it. It is the ultimate escape if you want to feel totally cozy and magical.

8. Land by Maggie O’Farrell

Narrator: To be announced

Set in Ireland in 1865, this story is about a father and his young son mapping the wild land after a terrible time of hunger. 

Historical books like this can sometimes feel a bit heavy and bogged down by dates and facts. 

However, the sweeping, lyrical language in this story is literally made to be heard out loud.

The audio version makes the ancient woods and persistent ghosts feel alive around you. 

It turns a history lesson into a beautiful, haunting song. It is a wonderful pick for a rainy day.

9. Transcendent by Laverne Cox

Narrated by the author

In this book, famous actress Laverne Cox shares her personal journey of finding fame in Hollywood while dealing with hard times and learning to heal. 

I absolutely loved this because Laverne reads it herself.

When she shares her deepest hurts and greatest triumphs, you can hear the strength and tears in her actual voice. 

Reading a biography can sometimes feel distant, but this feels like sitting across from a best friend sharing her heart. 

It is incredibly moving, inspiring, and powerful to listen to.

10. Seasons of Glass and Iron: Stories by Amal El-Mohtar

Narrated by Rachel Elizabeth Smith

This is a short, lovely fairy tale about two trapped women – one walking the earth in heavy iron shoes, and one stuck on top of a glass mountain – who become friends. 

Reading short stories can sometimes feel too quick, which makes it hard to connect with the characters. But the narrator here gives the story so much emotion and rhythm.

Her voice makes the fairy tale feel legendary and alive. It is a quick, sweet, and comforting listen that will absolutely brighten your day.

You don’t have to take my word for how amazing these narrators are – you can experience it for yourself for free. 

If you want to give these a listen, you can get a free audiobook or two this month through the links scattered in this post as part of my Audible promotion.

​Don’t miss out on these incredible performances that truly bring reading to a whole new level. 

Browse the recommendations above, grab your free trial, and plug in your headphones. 

Before you head off, drop a comment below and let me know: are you team physical book or team audiobook?